I never use to network. I did not realize how important it was and how often opportunities are handed out by it. I just thought it was a schmooze and booze fest. That may be true to some extent, but it actually is fun. Last summer, I was doing an event for my job and ended up talking to one of the Catering Directors at the venue. She told me that our company has been on the preferred vendors list at their resort for years and it was clear why. She said we always do a good job and are professional.
Right then and there, I realized something. It was not about schmoozing, in the grand scheme of things, but more about creating a connection to establish a relationship. I knew that if I wanted to be successful that I had to start building these relationships within the industry. So, whenever I was out with some friends and we talked to people, I tried to make a connection. I have made a few good ones. I met a few people who were interested in doing some commercials for the web and for presentations. I also met a few contacts in the hotels through friends that work in the casinos. I like to strategically show up when they are getting off and have them introduce me. So I am getting there. I have faith that I will have my contacts.
My father is opening up a restaurant in few weeks. This has been over a year’s time in progress. I decided that I wanted to be a part of the journey. I went with him on meetings and met some of his contacts. That is how I met three of the four required contacts for this class. I met his CPA, lawyer, and insurance agent. I briefly chatted with them about what I was going to school for and what my plans were after graduation. They told me to call them when I needed their services and I said I would. That last contact I needed was a banker and I did not have to look farther than my house. My roommate work at a bank and there you have it.
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